The global flexible packaging market is currently undergoing a period of transformation, driven by a growing demand for advanced adhesive and coating technologies that address regulatory compliance and sustainability. Within this shifting landscape, Henkel’s Packaging Adhesives business and Applied Adhesives have entered into an exclusive US distribution partnership on 10 Jul 2026. This collaboration is designed to provide flexible packaging converters across the United States with streamlined access to Henkel’s specialized product portfolio by leveraging Applied Adhesives’ national sales organization, technical service capabilities, and logistics network. The initiative will initially prioritize converters serving the food and beverage, health and beauty, and pet product sectors. Lisa Fieldhouse, director of Market Development at Applied Adhesives, noted, “This partnership represents an important step forward for Applied as we continue to invest in growth opportunities that deliver meaningful value to our customers.” She further emphasized, “We are well-positioned to support converters with the performance, reliability, and responsiveness they expect.”
The alliance serves to strengthen the technical support infrastructure available to manufacturers who require high-performance solutions. Henkel Adhesive Technologies brings a diverse range of innovations to the agreement, including adhesive and coating solutions developed to meet evolving environmental standards. James Cooley, business director for flexible packaging at Henkel Adhesive Technologies, stated, “Applied’s reputation as an adhesive distributor, equipment provider, and technical partner makes them an ideal channel partner for Henkel in the US market.” He added, “This exclusive partnership enables us to expand our US reach while ensuring customers receive the high level of service and technical support required in flexible packaging applications.” By combining Henkel’s technological expertise with Applied Adhesives’ local inventory and distribution power, the companies aim to enhance the responsiveness and reliability of the flexible packaging market supply chain.
This partnership follows several recent technological developments from Henkel Adhesive Technologies. Earlier this year, the firm collaborated with German tinplate manufacturer Thyssenkrupp Rasselstein and Austrian producer Pirlo to introduce tinplate can packaging for its adhesive products. Additionally, the company recently launched the Loctite Liofol HS 2819 RE heat-seal coating, a recyclable solution that satisfies safety standards set by the European Union and the US Food and Drug Administration. Other recent advancements include the Loctite Liofol LA 7837/LA 6265 solvent-free adhesive system for pet food packaging, and the provision of hotmelt pressure-sensitive adhesives to Ravenwood Packaging for use in linerless labeling systems. These various product launches underscore the specialized technical portfolio that will now be distributed through the new exclusive arrangement.
